Transparent Solar Cells Turn Windows Into Solar Panels

Worldwide, solar energy technology is growing day by day, becoming both cheaper and more efficient. With record-setting solar farms, it is the cheapest source of energy in many countries.

When we think of solar panels, a picture of bulky units of solar panels installed on rooftops comes to mind. However, with this mind-blowing invention by researchers from Michigan State University things are going to change.

Scientists have developed transparent solar cells that will capture only ultraviolet and near-infrared light.

Highly transparent solar cells hold the key to the future of the solar power industry

These panels are transparent, which means that they can be used just like normal windows in cars or homes, but they will also convert light falling on them into energy. Researchers boast that the cells could deliver up to 40 percent of electric power in the United States.

Richard Lunt, professor of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at Michigan State University, said, “Highly transparent solar cells represent the wave of the future for new solar applications.”

“We analyzed their potential and showed that by harvesting only invisible light, these devices can provide a similar electricity-generation potential as rooftop solar while providing additional functionality to enhance the efficiency of buildings, automobiles, and mobile electronics.”